Working in the restaurant industry for as long as I have, I am typically asked what I like to eat. We're extremely lucky to have a lot of really great restaurants in Fort Worth. I've put together my current top five local dishes. Remember, this list is pretty fluid. It's like your top five songs, until you hear that new one on the radio and you have to decide which one have to get bumped off.
Wagyu Skirt Steak, Pommes Frites, Arugula, Béarnaise - Lonesome Dove Western Bistro
Tim Love's flagship restaurant has been around for over a decade. Although most people rave about the Garlic Stuffed Tenderloin, which is great, I prefer a little more marbling to my steaks. I've ordered this the last several times I've visited the Dove and will most likely continue to do so. It's pretty amazing.
Caca Oaxaca - Rodeo Goat
A few years ago, when the burger craze started, I honestly didn't get it. I enjoy a burger from Dutch's, Fred's, Kincaids, Love Shack or any of the others just as much as the next guy, I just didn't get fanatical about them. That was until I ate at Rodeo Goat. They have plenty of delicious choices but I'm in love with the Caca Oaxaca: Mexican chorizo, avocado, pico de gallo, queso fresco, Tabasco mayo and a fried egg. Somehow the ingredients work together to make what may be the perfect burger.
Shrimp Poblano Relleno - Salsa Fuego
One of the habits that I have when I go out to eat, is to ask for the server's suggestion. It's something that drives my wife crazy, but I generally get a great meal. Chef Carlos recommended the Shrimp Poblano Relleno during a recent visit and I'm so glad he did. The grilled poblano is stuffed with grilled vegetables, feta cheese and shrimp, finished with sour cream, cilantro oil and ranchero sauce (it packs a little punch). The whole thing is served atop a bed of rice. If you like a little spice to your food and are looking for something that is filling yet not heavy, look no further.
Almost Famous Beef Bowl – Tokyo Café
Kevin Martinez may just be the most underrated chef in Fort Worth. I say that with a little hesitation because Kevin has started to get some well-deserved attention. Last year, he won the DFW regional of the Chefs Under Fire competition and is well known in the “foodie” circles in Fort Worth. The Almost Famous Beef Bowl is the “go to” hot dish at Tokyo Café for many. The hand sliced beef in the soy mix seasoned with Garlic Pepper and Chili paste works beautifully together.
B.L.T. with Egg – Winslow's Wine Café
My advice to any expecting parent is to sleep as much as possible and go to brunch. Brunch is something that my wife and I used to enjoy often, but when our son was born, our visits were a little less frequent. Okay, they were nonexistent. Now that Cooper is a little older, we are able to enjoy it again. Served open faced with no top, the grilled semolina, grilled Roma tomatoes, applewood smoked bacon, fried egg and field greens are tossed with apple cider vinaigrette and accompanied with an order of Home Fries.
Well, here they are. My top five. Until I go out for dinner tonight and find a new one. What are your favorite dishes right now?
